Why Does My Dog Eat Its Own Poo?

Rhodesian ridge-back standing tall

This habit, called coprophagia, is exhibited by many dogs and is more common than you may think. There are numerous theories as to why dogs do this, though none is conclusive.


  • Some experts think dogs may eat faeces to top up their vitamin intake.


  • Others have suggested that it’s an expression of fear or anxiety, or that it’s an attempt to cover up their mistakes for fear of punishment.


  • Some young dogs may learn this behaviour from watching their mothers - bitches eat the faeces of their pups to keep the den area clean.


The Most Common Reason: Diet

In my experience, the most common reason is simply down to diet. A dog can only absorb what his body needs; if his food is too rich in protein, then his body cannot absorb it all and, if he can’t work it off, he’ll eliminate it. Dogs are scavengers by nature, and wasting food is not an option. If he thinks there’s value left in what he’s deposited, he won’t walk away from it; it’ll be recycled!


Before you start thinking of all sorts of complicated medical reasons, check what he’s eating.

  • If he’s on dried complete food suitable for his age and level of daily exercise, he doesn’t need wet food added to it.


  • Neither does he need scrambled eggs, raw meat, dried pig’s ears, rawhide chews, etc.


  • By all means, give your dog an occasional food treat but not every day.


  • Dogs who also finish off a cat’s meal should be kept away from cat food - it’s far too rich for them, and their body can’t absorb it - it will always pass through.


Medical Causes for Pets Eating Canine Faeces

Dog coprophagia may also be a symptom of a medical problem. If you’ve ruled out the most common reasons mentioned previously, then a trip to the vets is advisable. Tell the vet about his behaviour, dietary habits, and any other medical symptoms.


Medical causes may include:

  • Internal parasites


  • Intestinal infections


  • Hyperthyroidism


  • Pancreatitis


  • Food allergies


  • Diabetes

If a medical problem is causing the behaviour, a powder supplement can be prescribed to reduce the problem.


Addressing Obsessive Compulsive Behaviour

If obsessive compulsiveness is causing the dog to eat his own poop, a method must be found to relieve the anxiety and obsessive behaviour. There are several options available, but it is important to try to understand why the dog is doing this in the first place. If you’d like to discuss it, then give me a call.


Preventing Dog Coprophagia

One of the simplest ways to stop a dog from eating his own poop is to keep his toilet area clean by picking up after your dog and other pets every day. If your dog ingests his faeces before it is possible to clean it up, a muzzle can stop him from eating while doing his business. It may also be worth putting a deterrent in your dog’s food or on the faeces.


How to Stop Your Dog Eating Poo

If you prefer to try some home remedies before seeking professional help, there are a few methods that may deter your dog from eating faeces. 


The Pineapple Method:

Put small chunks of fresh pineapple in your dog’s food; this gives faeces a bitter taste (note: large pieces will induce vomiting).


The Courgette Method

Cook some courgettes until soft in a little olive oil. A batch can be made and stored in the fridge. With each meal, give 1-2 tsp to small dogs and up to 1 tablespoon for large dogs.


Bait Faecal Material

Bait faecal material with a foul-tasting substance such as Tabasco sauce. But be prepared - your dog may develop a liking for it!


Training:

A well-trained dog should respond to a command like ‘Leave it’. Increasing your supervision, interaction, and playtime with the dog can also prevent dog coprophagia.


For a long-standing problem, you will need to be extremely vigilant. Your vet may suggest seeking the help of a dog behaviourist. If so, give me a call today.